3D Systems has released GibbsCAM 13, which provides a streamlined user experience, additional milling and turning capabilities, and an enhanced G-code editor that improves communication between software and CNC machining centres. UK availability is via Tech CADCAM.

GibbsCAM is said to be the industry’s only software offering elliptical turning, interpolation turning and eccentric turning, thus allowing full functionality for multi-tasking machines. Elliptical turning allows the user to turn parts on any machine that has an accommodating axis, such as four-axis mills, turn-mill and boring machines. Interpolation turning allows the user to cut a turning-style path by orienting a lathe insert towards a centreline, while moving three linear and up to three rotary axes. Turning operations can now be performed on milling and boring machines as well as turning centres with orientable spindles. Eccentric turning facilitates turning operations for shapes not aligned with the centre axis of a part, such as the cutting of lobes on a crankshaft or camshaft, eliminating costly set-ups and fixtures.
‘Autobar Chamfer’ is offered for the first time in the industry in GibbsCAM 13. This function lets the user define automatic chamfering of stock to eliminate burrs, which is especially useful on Swiss-style (sliding-head) lathes. In addition, broaching enables the programming and simulation of linear and rotary broaches from the GibbsCAM interface. A full set of broaching tools are included, or a
user can create custom broaches. Full broaching capabilities are available for milling and turning.
Five-axis deburring enables users to automatically program deburring operations by selecting geometry, surfaces or an entire model.
For further information www.techcadcam.net

CGTech is set to showcase its expanded range of software applications for the aerospace industry in Hall 4, Booth E120, at the Paris Air Show next week (17-21 June).

The company says that its Vericut software is used widely in the aerospace and defence sectors to improve the efficiency of various CNC machine-tool types.
Vericut is CNC machine simulation, verification and optimisation software that enables users to eliminate the process of manually proving-out NC programs. The software simulates all types of CNC machining, including multi-axis milling, drilling and trimming of composite parts, waterjet cutting, robotic machining, and turn-mill, additive, and hybrid machining processes. Vericut runs standalone, but can also be integrated with all major CAM systems used in the aerospace industry.
During the show, CGTech will be demonstrating Vericut’s Force optimisation module. Force, which now offers optimisation capabilities for both milling and turning operations, is said to reduce machining times by as much as 30-70%, while also extending the life of cutting tools. A physics-based optimisation methodology, Force determines the maximum reliable feed rate for a given cutting condition based on four key factors: force on the cutter, spindle power, maximum chip thickness, and maximum allowable feed rate.
CGTech’s Force calculates optimum feed rates by analysing tool geometry and parameters, material properties of the stock and cutting tool, detailed cutting-tool geometry, and Vericut cut-by-cut contact conditions. The module interpolates cutting conditions using a proprietary set of coefficients to account for the strength of material, and the effects of friction and temperature. Materials data is generated by actual machining tests and does not rely on extrapolating from FEA results.
For further information www.cgtech.co.uk

Esprit CAM software from DP Technology now provides freeform five-axis solutions essential for factories looking to make the transformation to a more digital manufacturing process.

At the heart of Esprit’s freeform five-axis machining capabilities is the concept of machine awareness. Unlike most CAM software suites, which according to DP focus primarily on the shape of the part and often devote scant attention to the machine itself, Esprit first considers the cutting parameters of the machine tool. Esprit precisely models the machine’s full capabilities, from axis travels and kinematic chains, to tooling and work holding.
This model generates an accurate simulation that works within the machine’s axis travels to avoid collisions. As the simulated part takes shape, the ‘stock automation’ feature accounts for the new space and adjusts the tool path to suit. The result is a complete and accurate picture of the entire cycle, letting users prove out and optimise their programs before making a single chip.
Full support for tool orientation strategies results in efficient, adapted tool paths that are said to maximise cutting engagement and feed rate, while preserving tool life. As users add operations, Esprit automatically calculates links between them to save time and motion. Change the order of operations at will, and Esprit automatically adjusts these links.
Freeform features are easy to create. Users simply define the part areas to machine, and the part areas to avoid. The smart selection, snap and propagation tools in Esprit further simplify this process. From there, programmers can choose an appropriate five-axis freeform machining strategy from several options.
For further information www.espritcam.eu